Tuesday, December 1, 2015

An Influence That Continues On

O. T. #646 "An Influence That Continues On"December 1, 20151 Samuel 25And Samuel died; and all the Israelites were gathered together, and lamented him, and buried hi in his house at Ramath. 1 Samuel 25:1aLET IT GLOW
The day before his heart attack, the lovely couple married 63 years took a walk together. How precious to share moments together, which unknowingly would be their last few. This sweet couple is the parents of my dear childhood friends, 2 girls and 2 boys. Such a loving family. They lived further down the dirt and around the corner from me as we all grew up. We rode bikes together and swam at the creek together. One of the girls and I often shared birthday parties, since we were born only a month apart. So you know I spent time at their house, and vice versa. It is so very hard for everyone to realize that Mr. Ken is gone on home now, yet his influence continues on in us who knew this loving man. So it must have been for Israel, as their beloved Samuel left them, too.

In today's reading, it starts with the death of Israel's Priest Samuel. He had been the nation's spiritual leader, although Saul was their king. Samuel always listened to and obeyed his LORD God. Now Israel was without the spiritual leadership it needed until David became king.

Are we preparing for our death?
In the New Testament, Herod sought to kill the Christ child, so he ordered so many baby boys killed in that effort. We thank God that He protected our Savior from such a feat, sending his family to Egypt for protection.

LET IT GROW
The spiritual condition of Israel at the beginning of this book was horribly at a low point. You will recall how corrupt the priesthood was with Eli's sons (chapter 2). The Ark of the Covenant was not at the tabernacle (chapter 4). Idolatry was practiced (chapter 7), and the judges were dishonest (chapter 13). It was through the godly influence of Samuel and later, David, that these conditions were reversed. (MacArthur)

Samuel was buried where he was born, Ramah.

What kind of influence do we have on others, our family and friends, co-workers? This time of year is a great opportunity for us to share how this baby Christ grew up, lived a perfect life without sin, died on the cross, and rose from the grave. It was all done for us sinful people, Gentiles included.

When we are gone, will our Christian influence continue on, evident in others?

LET IT GO
Continue to leave my mark of Christian influence on the lives of others by sharing His love.

Tell about the hope of eternal life, which Christ gives to His believers.